7 hidden gems in Florida that go beyond the typical tourist trap
Resident manatees swim in Crystal River, one of the best hidden gems in Florida — Photo courtesy of tobiasfrei / iStock Via Getty Images
As winter chills much of the country, there’s no better time to trade in frosty mornings for sun-kissed days and golden sunsets. If you want to escape the crowds and soak up some warmth, Florida’s hidden gems promise tranquility, unique experiences, and plenty of sunshine.
From manatee-filled springs to serene beaches and charming small towns, Florida has much more to offer beyond the typical tourist spots. Whether you’re searching for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these seven spots promise a peaceful escape with plenty of room to unwind, recharge, and make unforgettable memories.
Crystal River: Swim with gentle giants
Manatees snuggle together in Crystal River’s Three Sisters Spring — Photo courtesy of DiscoveryCrystalRiverFL.com
Nestled along Florida’s Nature Coast and an award-winning summer travel destination, Crystal River offers wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers a tranquil haven. Famous for its clear springs and resident manatees, this small town is the only place in North America where you can join guided tours to swim with these gentle giants. From mid-November to late March, manatees flock to the warmer waters of Three Sisters Springs, creating an unforgettable eco-tourism experience.
Crystal River certifies local guides to ensure responsible interactions with this protected species. Book a tour with trusted outfitters and immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind adventure. For a full-service escape, stay at the Paddletail Waterfront Lodge on Kings Bay. The all-inclusive packages include manatee swims, kayak rentals, sunset cruises, and cozy accommodations.
Beyond the water, Crystal River’s historic downtown charms visitors with locally owned boutiques and eateries. Time your visit to align with the First Friday celebration, where live music, crafts, and local flavors fill the streets. Or plan for January’s annual Florida Manatee Festival, a lively event featuring boat tours, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
Ocala and Marion County: A winter haven for horse lovers
The Equestrian Hotel overlooks the Grand Arena at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala — Photo courtesy of Skye Rodgers
For horse lovers, Ocala and the surrounding Marion County offer a unique mix of Southern charm, rolling hills, and towering live oaks. Dubbed the “Horse Capital of the World,” this area offers a winter retreat steeped in equestrian culture with events, venues, and champion horse farms.
Marion County’s many horse farms offer tours introducing visitors to their prized residents. At Grandview Clydesdale Farm, you can admire the gentle giants behind hundreds of world and national titles, including the famous Budweiser Clydesdales.
Immerse yourself in the action at the sprawling World Equestrian Center (WEC), the largest equestrian center in the United States. Covering 378 acres, WEC features a vast network of indoor and outdoor arenas and scenic trails. Humans are equally pampered here, with two luxurious hotels, seven restaurants, a spa, and more than 30 specialty shops. For a memorable stay, book a room at The Equestrian, the center’s flagship hotel, where floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the Grand Plaza and competition arena.
South Walton and 30A: Scenic highway to serene shores
This Seaside pastel cottage was home to Jim Carrey’s character in “The Truman Show” — Photo courtesy of Skye Rodgers
Stretching along Florida’s Panhandle, the 16 coastal communities of South Walton offer a quieter alternative to the bustling Gulf Coast hubs of Destin and Panama City Beach. Strung like pearls along scenic Highway 30A, each neighborhood boasts charm while sharing the same sugar-white sand beaches and turquoise waters.
Explore the storybook charm of Seaside, which is famous for pastel cottages, white picket fences, and its central town square. Browse quirky shops and boutiques, or grab a bite from Airstream Row, a collection of retro food trucks. For a more eclectic vibe, head to Grayton Beach for art galleries, local music, and the world-famous Red Bar — one of the best restaurants in Florida for regional dishes.
South Walton also offers upscale accommodations that are perfect for a winter retreat. Vacation homes and boutique hotels abound, but the Camp Creek Inn stands out for its blend of modern luxury and “Old Florida” charm. Its intimate, private club atmosphere is ideal for a peaceful getaway.
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Palm Coast and Flagler Beach: Quiet beaches and nature escapes
The sand on Flagler County’s Cinnamon Beach gets its unique hue from crushed coquina shells — Photo courtesy of Skye Rodgers
Often overlooked by many, Florida’s Palm Coast is a tranquil treasure waiting to be discovered. There is plenty of untouched beauty here, with 19 miles of uncrowded beaches, 45 parks and preserves, and more than 125 miles of trails. If you’re a nature lover, don’t miss the scenic trails at Graham Swamp Preserve. A visit to the Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park provides a glimpse into the history of Florida’s sugar plantations.
Located between Daytona and St. Augustine, Flagler Beach is a laid-back beach town that offers quiet, crowd-free shores perfect for leisurely walks. The town’s charming main street features local boutiques and family-owned restaurants. After a day of exploration, enjoy some local seafood with a view at the Oceanside Beach Grill — there’s something about dining on fresh catch with the sound of waves in the background that feels just right.
Sebastian and Vero Beach: Arts, nature, and relaxation
Enjoy the view at Indian River Lagoon at sunset — Photo courtesy of Visit Indian River County
The Treasure Coast is a destination that perfectly balances natural beauty and cultural richness. Vero Beach’s uncrowded beaches are perfect for escaping the winter blues. It is the ideal spot for some quiet reflection with a combination of peaceful shores and an artsy vibe.
The Vero Beach Museum of Art offers an artistic escape, and nature lovers can’t miss a kayak trip with Vero Tackle & Watersports through the Indian River Lagoon, one of North America’s most biodiverse estuaries.
In Sebastian, ChoZen Eco-Retreat is a sanctuary for wellness and nature lovers. It offers a variety of nature-based wellness and eco-experiences, including transformative retreats, immersive environmental education, and regenerative lifestyle practices. Whether you’re participating in a retreat or shopping at its monthly artisan market, this is an ideal place for a laid-back winter getaway.
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Lake County: Seaplanes, lakes, and outdoor thrills
The Tavares waterfront on Lake Dora is known as “Pontoon Promenade” for obvious reasons — Photo courtesy of Skye Rodgers
For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake County is a hidden Florida getaway full of adventures. This region, west of Orlando, is home to more than 1,000 freshwater lakes, making it an ideal place for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and other water adventures.
It’s also the perfect place for seaplanes. Known as “America’s Seaplane City,” visitors will find the Tavares Seaplane Base & Marina on the vibrant waterfront. You can book various seaplane tours, from a quick 30-minute ride to romantic dinner fly-ins and bar-hopping excursions.
When you’re ready for a more relaxing pace, head to Mount Dora. The charming historic downtown is a haven for antique shoppers and food lovers. The city has a packed event calendar, including a popular weekly Village Market held every Sunday. After a long day of shopping, step back in time with a night at the historic Lakeside Inn, the oldest continuously operating hotel in Florida.
Sebring: Small-town charm with lake views
History meets small-town charm in downtown Sebring — Photo courtesy of Visit Sebring
Sebring, known as the “City on the Circle,” is full of charm. Its historic downtown has become a hub for unique shops, restaurants, and breweries — places that seem to have been around forever but feel brand-new. Spend some time wandering the shops before enjoying a hearty meal at Gavaghan’s Irish Pub, which is located below the lovingly restored 10-room Roanoke Hotel.
Outside of town, Sebring’s lakes are perfect for a relaxing day on the water. The Citrus Golf Trail is a must for golfers, while car enthusiasts can’t pass up a visit to the Sebring International Raceway, a historic venue made famous in films like “Ford v Ferrari.”
